Do You Love Wearing High Heels?

ARE YOU A HIGH HEEL ENTHUSTIAST?

Don’t worry, no one is here to scold you. As with many things in life, high heels are OK in moderation. This style of shoe is famously known for its leg-lengthening abilities and aesthetic appeal. High heels are popular in many different genres of the fashion industry as well, allowing them to be highly versatile. Another thing high heels are infamously known for? Pain and discomfort, unfortunately. While high heels are essentially terrible for our feet, there are ways to make wearing high heels less impactful on our feet and ankles. Here's a handy list to keep in mind the next time you dig out your heels from the closet:

BE SURE TO WEAR THEM FOR SHORT PERIODS OF TIME.

• Our favorite trick is to bring a purse or bag that can easily conceal a pair of light, comfy shoes. Wear those comfortable shoes up until you absolutely must switch them out for the high heels and keep them close by for when your feet and ankles have had enough for the night.

TAKE IT SLOW, TAKE IT EASY, AND BE CAREFUL.

• Don’t go running a marathon while wearing your high heels! Walk a good, slow pace and pay careful attention to where you’re headed. Avoid uneven surfaces at all costs and watch out for bumps, potholes, manholes, or sewer grates!

KEEP PRE- AND POST-CARE NEAR AND DEAR TO YOUR ROUTINE.

Add some cushion to your high heels with stick-on inserts to guard trouble spots, like the backs of your ankles. Giving yourself a massage after high heel usage can help relieve pain and increase blood flow to reduce swelling - the same goes for a hot soak, compression socks, and maybe laser therapy for pain.

When it comes to keeping your feet happy before, during, and after high heel usage, Dr. Andrew Shapiro, Dr. Michael Barkin and Dr. Sajni Shah at Valley Stream Podiatry is here to help. Give us a ring at (516) 825-3860 to schedule an appointment at our Valley Stream, New York office..